DURING the festive season, criminals lurk at the shopping malls, robbing and hijacking people.

Most of these incidents happen while the unsuspecting victims are in the parking lots or outside shopping centres.

Also read: Wentworth faces alarming rise in vehicle hijackings

The police warn the public to avoid becoming victims of hijackings in shopping malls by heeding the following safety hints:

• Avoid being alone in a vehicle when travelling at night.
• Do not stop around hijacking spots or in any secluded area.
• Always be alert when driving. If you suspect that you are being followed by a suspicious vehicle, drive to the nearest police station or call the SAPS Emergency number 10111.
• Do not pick up hitchhikers, particularly when driving alone.
• Avoid distractions such as being on your phone or drinking and driving.
• Increase caution at intersections – always keep a look out for people loitering around your car or for any sudden activity around your car.

Safety hints for victims of a hijacking

• Comply, remain calm and do not argue with hijackers.
• Do not make sudden gestures.
• Avoid eye contact but try to remember what the perpetrator looks like by identifying and remembering special features.
• Try to get away safely from the area as quickly as possible.
• Do not be a hero, your life is worth more than that.

The public is also urged to be extra vigilant when leaving malls, work or when heading home late at night, as that is when most people are followed

• Make sure you keep emergency numbers on hand such as your security provider, SAPS, and your neighbours, in case you suspect you’re being followed.
• Outside your home, there may be less opportunity for you to escape in a hijacking situation, which could make you a hijacking victim. Don’t park directly in your driveway, wait in the street and only drive in once your gate has opened. Also, make sure your driveway is well-lit, especially when returning home at night.
• When approaching home, be extra alert by switching off the radio so you can be more aware of your surroundings.
• Check your street for perpetrators before you leave or enter your home. Rather drive around the block if you have an unsafe feeling and see unfamiliar pedestrians around.
• Be aware of vehicles parked close to your address, especially with three or four people inside, as these could be hijackers observing the area.
• Be aware when parking your vehicle.
• Be cautious while on the road – when stopping behind another vehicle, leave enough space in front of your vehicle to make an emergency escape if necessary.

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